19/11/2024
Aurélien BERNARD
Germany hosted its third multinational conference on cannabis legalization, bringing together officials from Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, the Czech Republic and Switzerland.
Organised by Burkhard Blienert, German Commissioner for Drug Addiction and Drugs, the conference provided an opportunity to share experiences in regulating cannabis for non-medical purposes , with a focus on public health, prevention and reducing illicit markets.
A look at Germany's journey towards cannabis legalization
Germany's Cannabis Consumption Act , which came into force in April , marked a turning point in the country's approach to drug policy. The law allows for home cultivation for oneself or around a Cannabis Grow Club .
Federal Health Minister Karl Lauterbach, who championed the reform, described it as a “fundamental shift ” in the country’s drug policy, highlighting its potential to improve public safety. However, Lauterbach also stressed the importance of evidence-based assessment as Germany enters this uncharted territory.